“I have had a number of letters and emails from concerned residents who tell me that they reported the farm to the RSPCA and even saw an inspector at the site, yet it seems no action was taken by the animal charity,” said Mr Hart.

Mr Hart has written to RSPCA Chief Executive Chris Sherwood asking how many times Bramble Hall was reported to the charity in 2018 and how many visits were undertaken to the premises by an inspector during the year.

He added: “The RSPCA is usually involved in prosecutions involving companion animals such as dogs and cats, but there is also plenty of evidence of them getting involved in court cases involving farm animals.

“It seems to be a bit of a mystery why the charity apparently took so little action in this instance and I hope to get some answers for their local supporters.”

An RSPCA Cymru spokesman said: “The premises in question have been under investigation by the local authority’s animal health team and RSPCA Cymru is one of a number of agencies which have provided expertise, assistance and support to the local authority to recently protect animals at the site.

“Suggestions that we did not act are completely untrue - in many cases we try to work with owners to improve care and welfare, although our officers can only act within the confines of the law.

“We have been involved in visiting this site over many months and have been supporting animals at the premises. This recently included making arrangements for more than 20 equines, and - pending an ongoing legal process - we will look to find new homes for these animals as soon as we are able to do so.

“We are so grateful to people across Pembrokeshire who seek to champion animal welfare, and report welfare problems to us.

“RSPCA Cymru will always look into and, if necessary, investigate any complaints made to us about animal welfare - and stand ready to provide further appropriate support to other agencies if and where required. Indeed, supporting other agencies is another key part of our inspectorate work to protect animal welfare.”

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